Machete attack victim files claim against state

A social worker who survived an attack by a man with a machete has filed a $750,000 tort claim against the state of Washington, alleging the state failed to properly equip social workers in isolated areas of Eastern Washington.

The claim, which was filed by social worker Edith Vance, also alleges that the state failed to protect Vance even though it received information that Bryan Russell was a potential danger three months prior to the Feb. 16 assault.

“They keep hoping things blow over,” attorney Russell Van Camp said. “She needs just compensation for the horrendous and horrific incident she experienced.”

A state spokesperson declined to comment because the claim may result in litigation.

Russell, 35, died after a Ferry County deputy shot him during the attack at a remote hillside near Curlew, Wash. Vance suffered broken bones, as well as deep lacerations.

After the attack, Vance testified before the Legislature in Olympia and spoke with Gov. Chris Gregoire about the dangers facing social workers. The Legislature established a task force to develop policies to keep social workers safe on the job.

But earlier this year, Vance went public with her concerns, saying little had changed for workers going door-to-door in Eastern Washington. Vance criticized the state for not providing social workers with radios that work in remote areas of Eastern Washington and failing to communicate with other agencies – such as the sheriff’s department. The state later bought the radios.

The tort claim, which must be filed before a lawsuit against the state can proceed, alleges the state failed to acquire safety equipment and implement procedures to protect workers.

The claim also alleges the state forced Vance to use sick and annual leave after the attack, and refused to pay for several medical expenses recommended by her health-care providers. It further alleges the state refused to purchase ergonomic equipment at work.